Echocardiography (Echo)

An echocardiogram (also called an "echo") is a non-invasive procedure that physicians use to diagnose cardiovascular disease. It uses sound waves to see all four chambers of the heart, the heart valves, the great blood vessels entering and leaving the heart and the sack around the heart. Once doctors diagnose a problem with the heart, they can help determine the right treatment.

Echocardiography allows doctors to visualize the anatomy, structure and function of the heart. It can show the physician if there is a heart valve problem, or how severe the problem is. It can also show if there is an abnormal blood flow within the heart.

Types of echocardiograms:

Tansthoracic echo is performed by placing a device on the outside of the chest wall with a gel-like substance to transmit sound waves into the body.

A stress echocardiogram combines the echocardiogram with a view of how your heart works under stress, using a treadmill or a medication that simulates the effect of exercise. Stress echocardiograms can help show the presence and severity of narrowing of the coronary arteries.

Doppler echocardiograms show how the blood flows in the heart and blood vessels, including how fast and where the blood is flowing.

The contrast echocardiogram combines an echocardiogram with a view inside the heart, using a harmless solution inserted through an IV as a contrast.

A transesophageal echo is an echo that uses a very small camera in the esophagus, behind the heart.

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About Providence Health & Services

Providence Health & Services in Montana is a not-for-profit network of hospitals, physicians, clinics, care centers, hospice and home health programs, and diverse community services across western Montana. With more than 40 clinics, two hospitals and over 2,000 caregivers statewide, our health and services organizations work together to provide quality care to those in need. We continue to honor and live by a commitment to compassionate service that the Sisters of Providence began more than 155 years ago.

Our Mission

As expressions of God’s healing love, witnessed through the ministry of Jesus, we are steadfast in serving all, especially those who are poor and vulnerable.